2011 Director’s Community Leadership Awards

The Albany Division is pleased to honor Sam and Linda Palazzole for their work in establishing a local office of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).

Mr. Palazzole and John Walsh, host of America’s Most Wanted, were college roommates. Mr. Palazzole remembers when Walsh’s son Adam was murdered at age 6. The Palazzoles’ personal connection keeps them committed to the prevention of crimes against children.

After years of fundraising, in 2011 the Palazzoles accomplished their goal of opening a local NCMEC in Albany. Community groups now turn to the Albany center for educational programs about child abduction and sexual exploitation. In addition, the center offers electronic child identification cards and Internet safety courses throughout the region.